Ten years ago today, I was in the seventh grade. I came home
from school on the bus, like any other day. I ran down the street excited to
finally be out of school, like any other day. However, once I walked inside,
there was an obvious feeling of sadness, of something not quite right. That is when
I learned that my grandpa was in the hospital. This was very odd, considering
he had been in pretty good health for as far back as I could remember. His
appendix, which had apparently been perforated unbeknownst to him or anyone
else, had ruptured. While the severity of this situation was explained to me,
it wasn’t something I could really comprehend. I just knew the doctors would
work their magic and Grandpa would be okay. Regardless, I wanted to see him.
After begging my parents to take me to see him, we finally settled on a
compromise—tomorrow after school.
The next school day seemed like it took an eternity, but I
finally made it through and rode the bus back home, just like the day before.
But this time, it was different. When I arrived at home, my sister and I were
asked to have a seat on the couch, and before they could even begin talking, it
was obvious what my parents were about to say. I’m not really sure what all was
said in that conversation. All I remember was a lot of crying, a lot of
tissues, and a lot of hugging. So many questions went through my head, many
relating back to why—why this had to happen so quickly, why I never got a
chance to say goodbye….why?
Ten years later, I still think about him almost daily. I
still keep his picture on display in whatever room, dorm, apartment I occupy
and I always think about the impact he had on me and my life. I think about the
memories that we shared together—the card playing, Camp Vevay, holidays, etc. and
how Grandpa was always enthusiastic about whatever activities we were sharing
in at the moment. There is no doubt in my mind that my strong sense of family
was impacted tremendously by him and Grandma.
On this second Sunday of Advent, I think about peace. With
many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Grandma and Grandpa probably
didn’t too often experience peace. However, knowing they are always with me
brings me a little bit of peace this and every Christmas season.
Love you, miss you.
